Insider Blog: Reserve/PUP & what it means for Cottam

TE Brad Cottam was placed on Reserve/PUP on Thursday

When the Chiefs released rookie TE Leroy Banks on May 17th, some thought that the move pointed to positive progression involving third-year TE Brad Cottam’s recovery from a neck injury (suffered against Cleveland, 12/20/09). When Banks was brought back on Wednesday night, many speculated just the opposite.

Cottam, a former 2008 third-round pick, was waived on Wednesday with an injury designation - the same day in which Banks was brought back and second-rounders Dexter McCluster and Javier Arenas inked rookie deals.

Cottam then went through the NFL’s 24-hour waiver system and cleared. Each of the 31 other teams were free to secure Cottam’s rights, but when they did not, Cottam’s rights reverted back to the Chiefs. When this happened, the Chiefs officially placed Cotam on the Reserve/PUP list.

So what does it all mean for Cottam?

Cottam is now free to continue rehabbing with the Chiefs, but will not count against the 80-man roster as the club opens training camp. We may see him active in the “rehab zone” located on the sidelines of practice sessions, or he may rehab elsewhere.

UPDATE - 6:30 PM (CST)

Although sent to Reserve/PUP, Cottam isn't expected to be activated in 2010.